What is a Sound Suppressor?

A sound suppressor has many different names that mean the same thing. They are also known as a silencer, sound moderator, muffler, can, or just suppressor. We like to use the term suppressor as it is the more appropriate term because they do not actually silence the weapon. A suppressor is a device that is attached to the end of a barrel, or sometimes it can be incorporated onto the barrel of a firearm which greatly reduces the noise and usually the muzzle flash generated by firing the weapon. They suppress the report you hear when a firearm is fired. They do NOT suppress the sound of the bullet breaking the sound barrier if you are shooting supersonic ammunition.

Why should I buy a suppressor, and what are the benefits of having one?

There are many reasons people like to own suppressors. Listed are some examples, not in any particular order.

- Suppressors reduce (not silence) the sound of each shot, greatly reducing the possible damage to the operator's hearing. In close quarter scenarios, this also benefits those around the operator. - Suppressors don't alert one to you're location as easily as an unsupressed firearm. This also makes hunting more enjoyable as animals are less aware of your location (check your local state rules before hunting with a suppressor).- Suppressors will ensure that no noise ordinances are violated if you're shooting on private property.- Suppressors make shooting more enjoyable and less offensive to others.- Suppressors also reduce the amount of felt recoil, eliminating dangerous muzzle hop/climb, ensuring more control over the weapon with greater accuracy and safety.- Makes faster follow-up shots possible.

How do I decide which type of suppressor to get?

Deciding which suppressor fits your needs is a choice that should be given some thought. There are three main areas to focus on when choosing your suppressor.

1. The bore size of your firearm - In other words, you absolutely need to make sure the bullet you are sending downrange is smaller than the bore through the suppressor. This may seem obvious; but we just want to be clear. It is not uncommon for one to purchase a larger bore suppressor and use it on a smaller bore firearm. This makes it so you can use a single suppressor on multiple hosts.2. The pressure of the round you’re firing – In some cases, the bullet you’re firing will fit through the suppressor, but the suppressor may not designed to handle the pressure. Be sure the suppressor you're interested in purchasing is rated for the caliber or calibers you plan on shooting.3. The size and weight of the suppressor – This is a personal preference decision. Determine what you would feel comfortable putting on the end of your firearm.

If you do not live in any of the above mentioned states, then it would be illegal for you to purchase a suppressor.

Step One -Pick out the suppressor that fits your needs and purchase it. Step Two - Find an FFL dealer in your area who also has their Special Occupational Tax (SOT) Stamp to transfer the suppressor to. If you live near Skyline Arms we can make the transfer directly to you at the end of the process.Step Three - Decide how you would like to register your suppressor. There are three ways you can register a suppressor.1: Register to an Individual (in your own name)Pros - You don't have to set up a trust or corporation.Cons - Only you can be in possession of the suppressor, and you have to be present whenever the suppressor is in use. Requires you to obtain your chief law-enforcement officers (CLEO) signature where you live. Requires you to get fingerprint cards.2: Register to a trustPros -There is no requirement to get finger print cards. There is no requirement to get the chief law-enforcement officers (CLEO) signature. Anyone listed as a trustee in the trust can have the suppressor in their possession. Once you have the trust, it can be used for future suppressors or NFA items.Cons - Some states require the trust to be registered with the state. There can be some work and costs associated with setting up a trust. 3: Register to a corporationPros - There is no requirement to get finger print cards. There is no requirement to get the chief law-enforcement officers (CLEO) signature. Anyone named as an officer in the corporation can be in possession of the suppressor.Cons - Requires more work than a trust. In other words, you have to keep your corporation in good standing, versus a trust in which you create it and forget about it.Step Four - Fill out a Form 4. The Form 4 contains information about the seller, buyer, and information about the NFA item being transferred. Go to, or contact your local FFL/SOT dealer where you wish to pick up the suppressor and complete the Form 4. Here is a link to the Form 4 After you have completed Form 4 and sent it in with all the appropriate documents, then the waiting game begins. Step Five - Wait. Once your paperwork has been approved and returned, your FFL/SOT will notify you. Once you have been contacted you can pick up your new suppressor.

How long does it take ATF to complete the paperwork before I can pick up my new suppressor?

It can take 2-6 months for the ATF to complete your paper work depending on how many suppressor sales are happening around the country.